Challenge Champion: Catherine Harney
At Talent Is Timeless, we run Monthly Songwriting Challenges to help keep our members writing, sharing, and connecting. Each month, we spotlight some of the incredible songwriters who placed in these challenges — inviting them to share a bit more about their lives, their creative journeys, and the stories behind their songs.
This month, we’re featuring Catherine Harney, a 68-year-old songwriter from Oakworth, West Yorkshire, who’s been with Talent Is Timeless since the very beginning in November 2020.
Catherine’s journey into songwriting started with emotion — and a suggestion. In her early twenties, a musician friend noticed she needed an outlet and encouraged her to try writing songs. It wasn’t about chasing charts or fame; it was about feeling seen. “Songwriting was a way of finding an outlet for pent-up emotions,” she says. It stuck.
Like many artists, she’s battled her share of inner critics. “Self-doubt is an ever-present monkey on my back,” she admits. “And the music business is very easy to feel too old in.” But that didn’t stop her from pushing forward — and finding unexpected milestones along the way.
Catherine was on the long list for the very first Talent Is Timeless competition. That initial encouragement gave her a boost — and soon she was taking part in everything the community offered. She joined the Create and Release course, performed at The Camden Club, and released her debut solo single. The following year she completed her first album, then her second. Now she’s working on a third.
One moment that still stands out: four of her songs received 5-star “Highly Commended” marks in the UK Songwriting Competition — and more recently, two different artists asked if they could cover one of her songs. “That was such a shock!” she says, still a little in disbelief.
The support of the Talent Is Timeless community has been central to her growth. “Where to start?” she says. “I’ve been lucky enough to take part in almost everything they’ve offered.” She highlights workshops, the Constructive Critics group, Song Hospital, the monthly challenges, and the Poland Recording Retreat — a transformative experience where she met Cooper Lower, who now produces her albums. “It was magical,” she says. “A fantastic learning experience, and the making of lifelong friendships.”
One course in particular — Piano for Songwriters with Rachel Walker Mason — opened up new creative avenues. “I now enjoy writing at the piano,” she says. “The course taught me to explore different genres and styles.”
And it’s not just her own voice that’s resonating. Recently, a Welsh Male Voice Choir reached out asking for a score of her song To Sing Again, so they could perform it. “I couldn’t believe it,” Catherine says. “It still feels surreal.”
For those who feel like they’ve missed their chance, she offers one clear piece of advice: “It really is never too late. If it’s what you want, grab it with both hands.”
Catherine’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when talent meets community, courage, and a willingness to begin again. From emotional beginnings to recording studios and choirs singing her songs — it’s clear she’s only just getting started.
Listen to Catherine’s winning song here.
And Connect with Catherine on Talent Is Timeless here.
Talent Is Timeless is a global community of 29,000+ songwriters aged 50 and over, proving that creativity doesn’t come with an expiry date. Our members connect with like-minded artists, participate in monthly songwriting challenges, attend expert-led masterclasses, and compete in our annual contest—with winners recording at iconic studios like Abbey Road. Whether you’re returning to music after years away or writing the best songs of your life, you’ll find encouragement, feedback, and genuine connection here.